Starting next week, the Indiana Department of Insurance will have a new commissioner for the first time in more than a decade.

The governor recently appointed Amy Beard as the agency’s new leader.

Beard has eight years of experience at the Department of Insurance, including as its general counsel. In a statement, Gov. Eric Holcomb said with her “broad” experience at the agency, Beard has the “right skill set” and dedication to lead the department.

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Beard will replace Stephen Robertson, who led the state agency for 11 years.

The Department of Insurance’s primary role is consumer protection, monitoring and licensing insurance companies and agents in the state. It also ensures Indiana insurance companies are financially solvent.

Contact reporter Brandon at bsmith@ipbs.org or follow him on Twitter at @brandonjsmith5.